Agriculture and Market Linkage Officer

Position: Agriculture and Market Linkage Officer
Project: Quality Education Enhancement and Livelihood Support
Location: Bethanchok, Kavrepalanchok, Nepal
Type: Full-time, Fixed-term contract
Salary: 35,000/- per month

About the Project:
The Quality Education Enhancement and Livelihood Support Project (QEELSP) is dedicated to improving primary education, empowering children, youth, and women, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Bethanchok. This project encompasses capacity-building for educators, child leadership programs, youth engagement, women’s empowerment, and enhancing organic farming through comprehensive training and support.

Position Summary:
The Agriculture and Market Linkage Officer will play a crucial role in advancing sustainable agriculture practices and enhancing market opportunities for farmers in Bethanchok. This position involves leading agricultural training programs, establishing market linkages, and providing technological support to farmers. The officer will also be responsible for coordinating grant assistance for organic farming and supporting the establishment of Farmer Agricultural Learning Center.

Key Responsibilities:
Training and Capacity Building:

• Lead comprehensive training programs on organic farming, integrated pest management, permaculture, and sustainable agricultural practices.
• Set up and manage the Farmer Agricultural Learning Center in the rural municipality, serving as hub for ongoing agricultural education and training.
• Prepare training manuals, guides, and other educational materials to support farmers’ learning and practical application of sustainable techniques.

Technological and Practical Support:

• Introduce and support the use of appropriate technologies and tools for organic farming, pest management, and soil conservation.
• Regularly visit farms to provide hands-on guidance, troubleshoot issues, and ensure the adoption of best practices.

Market Linkage Development:

• Identify and analyze local and regional market opportunities for organic produce.
• Establish and strengthen connections between farmers and potential buyers, cooperatives, and market platforms.
• Support farmers in understanding and participating in agricultural value chains to enhance the profitability and sustainability of their farming practices.

Input Support Coordination:

• Manage the distribution and utilization of support provided to families for starting organic agro-farms and fruit farming.
• Ensure that input supports are used effectively and provide support to farmers in the planning for organic farming ventures.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of training programs and market linkage initiatives.
• Prepare detailed reports on the progress, challenges, and outcomes of agricultural activities and market linkage efforts.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Engage with local communities, cooperatives, and stakeholders to promote participation in the project’s agricultural initiatives.

Qualifications:

Education: Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, Agribusiness, or a related field.

Experience:

At least 3 years of experience in agricultural development, organic farming, or market linkage activities.Proven experience in conducting agricultural training and capacity-building initiatives.

Knowledge:

• Strong understanding of sustainable agricultural practices, organic farming techniques, and market linkage strategies.
• Familiarity with local agricultural contexts and challenges in rural Nepal.

Skills:

• Excellent communication, facilitation, and community mobilization skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in rural settings.
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office and other relevant software.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Language: Proficiency in Nepali and English.

Travel Requirements

• Regular travel within the project area is required.
• Occasional travel outside the project area for training or meetings may be necessary.

Work Environment

• The position involves working in rural agricultural settings with frequent interactions with farmers and community members.
• Flexibility in working hours may be required to accommodate agricultural cycles and community schedules.

Application Procedure

Interested candidates are requested to submit their CV and a cover letter outlining their suitability for the position, including their connection to the local community and language skills, to https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScztxwCXYdCR6-Cdj-ikPVlrOHbwV-X4Ud-N3gNu5D_f6anOQ/viewform

Equal Opportunity

Our organization is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, gender, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.